Cheap Flights to Cali from HK$1,597

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Cali could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are always good options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight often lies in your choice in clothes. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left for other occasions. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a serious condition that can affect passengers during long flights. The great news is there are ways to lower your risk of developing it. Stay hydrated, get up and walk around the cabin wherever possible and wear compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Cali in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.