Cheap Flights to Los Angeles from HK$1,142

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well organised. We've made a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Los Angeles escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your getaway to Los Angeles quick and painless. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually 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 inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• 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 luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.