Cheap Flights to Vasco da Gama from HK$183

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Vasco da Gama. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, important documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Vasco da Gama in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favourite cologne or perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• 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 in the cabin.