Cheap Flights to Cotopaxi from HK$7,649

If you're not prepared, travelling can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Cotopaxi. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

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 liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being organised before you get to the airport will make your trip to Cotopaxi a breeze. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. 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 can keep it with you on board.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.