Cheap Flights to Costa del Este from HK$3,540

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a worry-free start to your getaway in Costa del Este. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are good options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Costa del Este in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Have your travel documents and ID at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.