Cheap Flights to Ponta Delgada from HK$386

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will help get your Ponta Delgada escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are good options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Ponta Delgada a breeze. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.