Flights to Redding, Iowa from NT$26,675

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Redding. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is 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.

It's all about being prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Redding, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you on board.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.