Flights to Santa Clara, Altea from NT$17,103

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your time in Santa Clara. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any daily medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to take on and off.
• 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, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Santa Clara, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.