Flights to Foster City, San Francisco from NT$5,047

If you're not prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your getaway in Foster City. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, important documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space 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 airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Foster City in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.