Cheap Flights to San Mateo from HK$738

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. We've made a list of handy travel tips that will help get your San Mateo holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you've got all the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your laptop, a charger, your medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organised before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to San Mateo a breeze. Below are some top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• 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 things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray 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-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.