Cheap Flights to Santa Caterina from HK$4,180

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Santa Caterina could be a piece of cake or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some useful travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Caterina in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to keep your ID and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in 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.