Flights to São Francisco, Paraíba from

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in São Francisco. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out São Francisco, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned separately.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually 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 suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.