Cheap Flights to Las Cruces from HK$5,188

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Las Cruces. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a good read. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

The trick is to be well organised before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Las Cruces in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Have your passport and travel documents within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.