Cheap Flights to La California from CA $577

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. We've compiled a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your La California escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you carry the right gear. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to La California in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Have your travel documents and passport handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.