Flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California from NT$4,354

If you're not prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you carry the right stuff. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, find room in your bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

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 by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is often as simple as your clothing choices. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left for other occasions. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you later.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-distance flying is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To avoid this, make the most of every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help minimize this risk.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Cardiff-by-the-Sea, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.