Cheap Flights to San Mateo from HK$2,823

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to San Mateo could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to San Mateo in a flash. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Have your travel documents and passport close by. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.