Cheap Flights to Matillas from HK$1,074

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Matillas. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, official ID, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are good options. If you intend to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Matillas in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.