Cheap Flights to Santa Lucia from HK$450

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. Check out these handy travel tips that will help get your Santa Lucia escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, important documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of 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.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your trip to Santa Lucia a pleasure. Read through our handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring 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-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.