Cheap Flights to La Mirada from HK$390

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in La Mirada.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you bring the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your priority when picking what to wear on your flight. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swollen feet and ankles are a common occurrence. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-haul flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this, make the most of every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help reduce this risk.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your getaway to La Mirada a breeze. We've compiled some top tips for a swift journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, 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 technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.