Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Sandakan could be completely painless or it could go on forever. Below are some useful travel tips that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organised before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Sandakan quick and painless. Read through our top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.