Cheap Flights to Walnut Creek from HK$2,977

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your holiday in Walnut Creek. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• The result of sustained 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 staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Walnut Creek before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Travelling with your favourite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.