Cheap Flights to Oakland from HK$1,136

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your journey a pleasant experience. Follow our insider tips and you'll be cruising through airport security and discovering Oakland before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favourite shows are some great options. If you hope to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Oakland in next to no time. 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 matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must 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.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.