Cheap Flights to Berkeley from HK$343

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight an enjoyable experience. Follow our insider tips and you'll be zooming through the airport and enjoying Berkeley before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Berkeley, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.