Cheap Flights to Hacienda Santa Maria from HK$1,490

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Hacienda Santa Maria. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you bring the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and wear easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Hacienda Santa Maria in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.