Cheap Flights to Santa Barbara from HK$158

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Santa Barbara could be simple and straightforward or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

The answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out Santa Barbara, here you come:

• Have your ID and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.