Cheap Flights to Santa Fe from HK$1,530

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Santa Fe vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Layer up with loose, breathable clothing and pack a jacket in case you get cold. Always go with flat, slightly roomy shoes as your feet may swell a little during the journey. Leave the high heels and heavy boots in your checked luggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long distances is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are another easy way to help lower your risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Fe in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• 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 ready to show.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big 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, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.