Cheap Flights to Rio from HK$1,673

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. We've put together a list of handy hints that will get your Rio escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Rio a pleasure. Below are some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.