Flights to Fairbanks, Quitman from NT$15,427

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy hints that will get your Fairbanks vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and opt for slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Fairbanks before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.