Flights to Kirkland, Seattle from NT$9,725

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy travel tips that will get your Kirkland vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Kirkland in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite 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-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.