Cheap Flights to Barro from HK$1,040

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Barro escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you take the right things. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Barro in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.