Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz de la Palma from HK$1,694

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Santa Cruz de la Palma could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, find room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being organised before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Santa Cruz de la Palma a pleasure. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.