Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz from HK$1,698

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Santa Cruz. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favourite movies are always good options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

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 avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and choose shoes that are flat and easy to pull on and off.
• 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 socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being organised before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Santa Cruz quick and painless. We've rounded up some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great 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.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.