Cheap Flights to Irvine from HK$409

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Irvine could be a breeze or it could go on forever. We've compiled some handy tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, make room in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and pick flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The secret is to be well organised before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Irvine in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.