Cheap Flights to Alter do Chão from HK$1,789

If you're not prepared, travelling can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Alter do Chão. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Alter do Chão in a flash. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.