Cheap Flights to Alcantara from HK$257

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. We've made a list of handy hints that will get your Alcantara escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organised before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Alcantara a piece of cake. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.