Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz from HK$277

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your flight as stress-free as possible. Follow our top tips and you'll be hightailing it through airport security and seeing the best of Santa Cruz in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Santa Cruz before you know it. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.