Cheap Flights to Valenca from HK$2,077

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these handy hints that will help get your Valenca holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Valenca, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.