Cheap Flights to Sao Pedro da Aldeia from HK$2,283

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organised. We've made a list of essential travel tips that will get your Sao Pedro da Aldeia escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, make room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sao Pedro da Aldeia in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.