Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz from HK$374

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Santa Cruz could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Next, find room in your bag for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your number one priority when picking what to wear on board. Consider your footwear choice carefully too, as swollen feet can be a side effect of flying. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are your best bet.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a serious condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. But the great news is there are ways to significantly reduce your risk of developing it. Drink plenty of water, get up and wander the aisles as much as you can and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Cruz in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.