Cheap Flights to Alcacer do Sal from HK$381

If you're not prepared, travelling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Alcacer do Sal. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Alcacer do Sal in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.