Cheap Flights to Santa Lucia del Mela from HK$4,076

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your holiday in Santa Lucia del Mela. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Santa Lucia del Mela a breeze. Check out our handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favourite perfume or cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.