Cheap Flights to Oakland from HK$1,253

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're prepared. We've made a list of handy tips and tricks that will get your Oakland holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and opt for flat, easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Oakland, here you come:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.