Flights to Samoa, California from NT$12,787

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've put together a list of handy hints that will help get your Samoa vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be easy if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

Being prepared before your flight can make your trip to Samoa a breeze. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.