Flights to Fairbanks, from NT$7,443

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. We've made a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Fairbanks escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Fairbanks, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.