Cheap Flights to Ipanema from HK$3,609

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Ipanema escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Ipanema in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.