Cheap Flights to Popayán from HK$1,653

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will help get your Popayán escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some great options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Popayán before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.