Cheap Flights to Santa Clara from HK$2,121

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Santa Clara could be as easy as pie or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you carry the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Next, leave space in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Santa Clara a pleasure. We've compiled some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with a new perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.