Cheap Flights to Santo Tomás from HK$1,452

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Santo Tomás could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, important documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favourite movies are good options. If you hope to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear flat, enclosed footwear like slip-ons.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Santo Tomás in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.