Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz from HK$1,329

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Santa Cruz could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. Below are some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of your airplane are no fashion runway. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and don't forget to bring a cardigan as the temperature can drop inside the cabin. Closed-toed, flat shoes are also a wise idea.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. But the good news is there are numerous ways to significantly reduce your risk of developing it. Drink plenty of water, get up and wander the aisles as often as possible and wear compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Santa Cruz a breeze. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• 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 headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.