Cheap Flights to Ponta d'Ouro from HK$1,457

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Ponta d'Ouro. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear closed-toe, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Ponta d'Ouro a piece of cake. Read through our handy hints for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.