Cheap Flights to Santa Maria do Herval from HK$11,354

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Santa Maria do Herval could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Santa Maria do Herval, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.