Cheap Flights to Petaluma from HK$1,046

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Petaluma. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put 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) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Petaluma, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Travelling with a new perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.