Flights to Shaver Lake, California from NT$14,430

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your vacation in Shaver Lake. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

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

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's 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.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.