Cheap Flights to Puerto Quetzal from HK$1,385

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. Check out these handy hints that will get your Puerto Quetzal holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and pick shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Puerto Quetzal in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.