Flights to North Highlands, Sacramento from NT$9,043

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your vacation in North Highlands. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh 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 nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to North Highlands before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, 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 minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.