Flights to Manteca, Stockton from NT$54,424

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your vacation in Manteca. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Manteca in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite 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 clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.