Cheap Flights to Santa Clara from HK$1,648

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Santa Clara. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Clara in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. 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 single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.