Cheap Flights to Arco da Calheta from HK$488

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Arco da Calheta.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a pleasure if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Next, find room in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are not the best place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and remember to take a sweater as it can get quite cool in the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, enclosed shoes are also a good idea.
• It's likely you've heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are plenty of ways to minimize your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights, drink plenty of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Do a few laps of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Arco da Calheta in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.