Cheap Flights to Balcon del Mar from HK$423

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Balcon del Mar. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Balcon del Mar before you know it. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• 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 and will be confiscated.