Cheap Flights to San Mateo from HK$286

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will get your San Mateo escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

Being organised before your flight can make your trip to San Mateo a breeze. Read through our handy hints for a swift journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal 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 all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, 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.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.