Flights to Bandera, Texas from NT$6,185

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Bandera. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a pleasure if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. 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 restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Bandera a pleasure. Here are some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.