Cheap Flights to Bastimentos from HK$1,503

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of top travel tips that will help get your Bastimentos escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Bastimentos before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.