Cheap Flights to Ponta Delgada from HK$1,993

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Ponta Delgada holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure 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:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

Being organised before you get to the airport will make your trip to Ponta Delgada a pleasure. Read through our handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.