Cheap Flights to Arcata from HK$2,219

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Arcata could be a breeze or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some handy travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favourite movies are some great options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

The trick is to be organised before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Arcata in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Keep your ID and travel documents handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.