Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz from HK$168

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy tips that will get your Santa Cruz vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight often lies in the clothes you wear. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left in your checked suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. The good news is there are ways to significantly reduce your risk of developing it. Keep your fluids up, get up and wander the aisles as often as you can and wear compression socks or tights.

The answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Santa Cruz, here you come:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and passport close by. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.