Flights to Bland, Missouri from NT$27,226

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

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel docs, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for an easy trip through security. Look out Bland, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with a new perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you on board.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.