Cheap Flights to Mata de Plátano from HK$1,215

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Mata de Plátano could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change 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) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Mata de Plátano in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.