Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz from HK$977

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy tips that will get your Santa Cruz holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, important documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are always good options. If you intend to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave 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:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Cruz in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• 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). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.