Cheap Flights to Santa Maria from HK$1,125

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and having a ball in Santa Maria in no time at all.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of an airplane are not the best place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and pack a sweater as it can get quite cool in the cabin during long-haul flights. Enclosed, flat shoes are also recommended.
• Most travelers are aware of DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There are plenty of ways to lessen your risk. Don a pair of compression socks, stay well hydrated and get your legs and feet moving. Walk around the cabin when possible or try out some exercises in your seat.

It's all about being prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out Santa Maria, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.