Flights to Covelo, California from NT$13,168

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your vacation in Covelo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Covelo, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.