Cheap Flights to San Diego from HK$1,267

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your time in San Diego. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your important medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to San Diego a pleasure. Here are some handy hints for a speedy journey through security:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great 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.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.