Cheap Flights to San Francisco

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to San Francisco could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy tips that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to San Francisco in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.