Flights to San Antonio, Petaluma from NT$7,551

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in San Antonio. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out San Antonio, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.