Cheap Flights to San Francisco

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be hightailing it through airport security and having a blast in San Francisco in no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare 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 gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some top tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out San Francisco, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favourite perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.