Cheap Flights to Puerto Maldonado from HK$278

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Puerto Maldonado escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favourite movies are always good options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a 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 arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Puerto Maldonado in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favourite perfume or cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.