Flights to Occidental, California from NT$23,783

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these handy travel tips that will get your Occidental escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, put in your passport, important documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Occidental in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.