Cheap Flights to California from HK$542

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to California could be simple and straightforward or it could drag on forever. We've put together some useful travel tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've pulled together some useful tips for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out California, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Travelling with a new perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.