Cheap Flights to Petersburg from HK$1,470

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will get your Petersburg holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, important documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favourite shows are always good options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Petersburg in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.