Cheap Flights to Nuevo Vallarta from HK$1,042

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Nuevo Vallarta could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a great experience if you pack the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Nuevo Vallarta in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.