Cheap Flights to La Democracia from HK$4,300

If you're not prepared, travelling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these useful tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in La Democracia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to La Democracia in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Have your passport and travel documents at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. 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 arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.