Flights to Alma, Colorado from NT$8,625

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. We've made a list of essential travel tips that will get your Alma vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, important documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Alma a breeze. We've rounded up some top tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.