Cheap Flights to Santa Rosa from HK$466

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. We've put together a list of handy tips that will help get your Santa Rosa holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel 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 Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Santa Rosa a pleasure. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, 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-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.