Cheap Flights to El Arenal from HK$290

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your journey as enjoyable as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be breezing through the airport and discovering El Arenal in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and choose shoes that are roomy, 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 inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your getaway to El Arenal a piece of cake. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Keep your travel documents and ID within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favourite cologne? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.