Cheap Flights to El Ocotal from HK$5,201

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well organised. We've made a list of essential travel tips that will get your El Ocotal holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you've got all the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, make room in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

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 the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to El Ocotal in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. 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 can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.