Cheap Flights to Santa Comba Dao from HK$374

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Santa Comba Dao could be a breeze or it could go on forever. Below are some handy hints that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, travel documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are always good options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

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 liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Comba Dao in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport close by. They're the first items 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 headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.