Flights to Ames, Iowa from NT$21,653

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organized. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Ames vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before your flight will make your trip to Ames a pleasure. Read through our useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.