Cheap Flights to Santa Catalina from HK$1,427

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Santa Catalina holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favourite movies are always good options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

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

Being organised before your flight can make your trip to Santa Catalina a pleasure. We've compiled some handy tips for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.