Flights to Portola, California from NT$17,622

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. Follow these top travel tips that will help get your Portola vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you carry the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

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 avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Portola in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.