Cheap Flights to Mata from HK$356

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Mata. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are always good options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and pick flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Mata easy and painless. We've compiled some top tips for a swift journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.