Cheap Flights to San Francisco from HK$589

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to San Francisco could be a breeze or it could go on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Layer up with loose, natural fibers and don't forget to pack a cardigan in case it gets chilly in the cabin. Opt for a pair of flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and hiking boots in your checked luggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long distances is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are another great idea to help lower your risk.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your getaway to San Francisco a piece of cake. Read through our top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.