Cheap Flights to St. John from HK$485

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to St. John could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. Below are some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good read. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to St. John in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.