Flights to Altadena, Los Angeles from NT$18,943

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your time in Altadena.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good book. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, natural fibers and don't forget to pack a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin. Always opt for roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell a little during the journey. Leave the high heels and chunky boots in your main luggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression socks and tights are another great idea to help lower your risk.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Altadena in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, 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. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices 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.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good 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 and will be confiscated.