Cheap Flights to São Tomé from HK$5,445

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be cruising through airport security and having a blast in São Tomé in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a great experience if you carry the right gear. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Next, make room in your bag for your phone and charger, any daily medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fuels, are also banned.

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 flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to São Tomé a piece of cake. We've rounded up some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil 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 clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.