Cheap Flights to São Francisco

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your journey a stress-free experience. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through the airport and having a blast in São Francisco in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you've got all the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Next, find room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your trip to São Francisco quick and painless. Here are some handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.