Flights to Ames, Canajoharie from NT$25,761

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Ames could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. Below are some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• 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 gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you get to the airport can make your trip to Ames quick and painless. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Have your boarding pass and passport handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.