Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz da Conceição from HK$1,045

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Santa Cruz da Conceição could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. Below are some useful tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, make room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• 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 foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Santa Cruz da Conceição in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.