Cheap Flights to Long Beach from HK$1,229

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a worry-free start to your holiday in Long Beach. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are some great options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've compiled some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Long Beach, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take 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), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.