Cheap Flights to Mezcala from HK$286

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Mezcala could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favourite shows are some great options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Mezcala in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.