Cheap Flights to Ilhéus from HK$1,021

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your holiday in Ilhéus. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Ilhéus a breeze. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Travelling with a new cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.