Flights to San Miguel, California from NT$21,322

If you're not prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your vacation in San Miguel. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to San Miguel in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.