Flights to Carmel Valley, California from NT$39,012

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Carmel Valley vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your number one priority when deciding what to wear on board. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are quite common. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. But the good news is there are proven ways to reduce the risk of developing it. Stay hydrated, get up and wander the aisles as much as you can and wear compression socks or tights.

It's simple — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Carmel Valley, here you come:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.