Flights to Tarentum, Pittsburgh from NT$4,475

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Tarentum vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The secret is to be well organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Tarentum in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.