Cheap Flights to St. Petersburg from HK$974

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your getaway in St. Petersburg. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and pick easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be well organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to St. Petersburg in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• It's also likely that you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.