Cheap Flights to El Franco from HK$455

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of handy hints that will get your El Franco holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you've got all the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a good book. Next, find a spot in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for an easy trip through airport security. Look out El Franco, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.