Flights to Elmendorf, San Antonio from NT$19,521

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. We've made a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Elmendorf escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you've got all the right things. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your important medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel 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 aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Elmendorf easy and painless. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume or cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• There's a chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.