Cheap Flights to Mindelo from HK$7,157

If you're not prepared, travelling can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your getaway in Mindelo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's easy — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Mindelo, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take 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-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.