Cheap Flights to Ávila from HK$1,349

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've compiled a list of handy hints that will get your Ávila holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Ávila in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.