Cheap Flights to Golden Gate from HK$1,074

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Golden Gate holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being organised before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Golden Gate a breeze. Read through our useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.