Cheap Flights to Cortes from HK$5,172

If you're not prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your holiday in Cortes. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favourite movies are some great options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out Cortes, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.