Flights to San Francisco, Guarico from NT$72,440

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of handy travel tips that will get your San Francisco escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

The answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out San Francisco, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the 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.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.