Cheap Flights to Irvine from HK$3,926

If you're not prepared, travelling can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your getaway in Irvine. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your important medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your trip to Irvine a piece of cake. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.