Flights to Castroville, California from NT$3,215

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. We've compiled a list of handy tips and tricks that will get your Castroville escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some great options. If you hope to take a short nap, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and don't forget to bring a cardigan as it tends to get cool in the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, enclosed shoes are also a good idea.
• The condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this from happening. Wearing a high-quality pair of compression socks or tights also helps reduce the risk.

It's all about being prepared. We've put together some top tips for a speedy trip through security. Look out Castroville, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.