Cheap Flights to Ixtapa from HK$16,581

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Ixtapa. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, important documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are good options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

The trick is to be organised before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Ixtapa in a flash. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.