Flights to Big Meadows, Stanley from NT$4,223

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Big Meadows escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Big Meadows in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.