Cheap Flights to San Rafael from HK$175

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in San Rafael. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you take the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, find room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being organised before you get to the airport can make your getaway to San Rafael easy and painless. We've rounded up some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Travelling with a new cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.