Flights to Paradise Valley, Phoenix from NT$26,854

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Paradise Valley. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, find room in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Paradise Valley quick and painless. We've rounded up some useful tips for a swift journey past security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.