Cheap Flights to Monte Santo from HK$1,204

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Monte Santo could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any vital medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and choose shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Monte Santo in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and passport handy. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.