Cheap Flights to Mérida from HK$542

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be zooming through airport security and enjoying Mérida in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Mérida, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner 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.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.