Cheap Flights to Oakland from HK$4,830

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy hints that will get your Oakland holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, your medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being organised before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Oakland quick and painless. Below you'll find some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.