Cheap Flights to Alameda from HK$347

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your journey an enjoyable experience. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through airport security and enjoying Alameda in no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you take the right stuff. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Alameda in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.