Cheap Flights to Santo Domingo from HK$1,271

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Santo Domingo could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've put together some tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favourite shows are good options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being prepared before your flight will help make your trip to Santo Domingo quick and painless. Below are some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favourite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.