Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz from HK$1,480

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Santa Cruz could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Santa Cruz in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Keep your travel documents and passport within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. 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.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• 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 luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.