Cheap Flights to Palo Alto from HK$2,975

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 and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Palo Alto. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, official ID, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are always good options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to Palo Alto quick and painless. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.