Cheap Flights to Oakland

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a comfortable start to your holiday in Oakland. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, leave space in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's easy — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Oakland, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.