Cheap Flights to Oakland

Don't leave booking your flight to Oakland until the last possible moment. That's one move frequent jet-setters use to get the best prices. Booking in advance means more choices and more affordable flights. Another terrific way to score the most affordable fare is to research all options. If your destination has a few airports, look into the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. And finally, don't forget that the early bird catches the worm. Familiarise yourself with airfare costs and have your credit card ready to snap up a ticket as soon as you see an unbeatable bargain. The sweetest deals never last long.

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Oakland escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a cruisy experience if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged 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 improve your circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Oakland in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.