Flights to California, Couva from NT$63,177

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these useful tips for a worry-free start to your vacation in California. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you bring the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• 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 or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to California a piece of cake. We've compiled some handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, 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 as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine 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.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.