Cheap Flights to San Francisco from HK$579

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and enjoying San Francisco in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for a speedy trip through security. Look out San Francisco, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.