Cheap Flights to Treinta y Tres from HK$1,170

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Treinta y Tres. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Next, leave space in your bag for your phone and charger, any daily medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat 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. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Treinta y Tres in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.