Cheap Flights to Santo Tomas from HK$1,246

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Santo Tomas could be completely painless or it could go on forever. We've compiled some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a comfortable experience if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Santo Tomas, here you come:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Travelling with your favourite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.