Flights to Pagosa Springs, Colorado from NT$12,216

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your getaway in Pagosa Springs. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and opt for flat, enclosed footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Pagosa Springs in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, 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), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.