Flights to California, Pennsylvania from NT$4,852

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to California could be completely painless or it could go on forever. Here are some tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Watch out California, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.