Cheap Flights to El Dorado from HK$2,856

If you're not prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in El Dorado. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some great options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

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

It's all about being prepared. We've put together some useful tips for an easy trip through security. Look out El Dorado, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.