Flights to Castella, California from NT$59,273

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've compiled a list of handy hints that will help get your Castella vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance 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.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Castella easy and painless. Below you'll find some handy hints for a stress-free journey through security:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. 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-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.