Cheap Flights to Santo Tome del Puerto from HK$1,784

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. We've made a list of handy hints that will help get your Santo Tome del Puerto escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in your choice of clothing. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left in your checked suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. There's plenty you can do to lower your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression tights or socks, drink lots of water often and move your legs and feet. Do a lap or two of the cabin or perform some stretches in your seat.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Santo Tome del Puerto, here you come:

• Be sure to have your passport and boarding pass handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you on board.
• It's also likely that you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.