Cheap Flights to Santa Catarina from HK$1,289

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a worry-free start to your getaway in Santa Catarina. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Santa Catarina, here you come:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky 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 the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.