Cheap Flights to Mata from HK$524

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Mata could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. Here are some handy tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are always good options. If you plan to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've put together some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Mata, here you come:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.