Cheap Flights to Santa Cilia from HK$1,249

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your time in Santa Cilia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel docs, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are always good options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Santa Cilia in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, 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), zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.