Flights to Alturas, Bartow from NT$8,187

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Alturas. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a pleasure if you've got all the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Alturas before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your 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.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.