Cheap Flights to Tarrafal from HK$1,325

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Tarrafal could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, 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 prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Tarrafal in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. 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 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.