Cheap Flights to Santa Rosa from HK$1,164

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your holiday in Santa Rosa. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger 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 clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Rosa in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Airport 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 close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with a new cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.