Cheap Flights to Puerto Pilón from HK$1,117

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Puerto Pilón. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans 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:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Puerto Pilón in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.