Cheap Flights to Loja from HK$239

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your holiday in Loja. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a great experience if you pack the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, 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 changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and pick easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting 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.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Loja a piece of cake. Check out our handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.