Flights to Malibu, Los Angeles from NT$16,721

If you're not prepared, traveling can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Malibu. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. 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 banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is simple — be organized. We've put together some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Malibu, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.