Flights to La Grande, Eatonville from NT$4,987

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your getaway in La Grande. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out La Grande, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• 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.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.