Flights to Cosmopolis, Washington from NT$5,228

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our top tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and enjoying Cosmopolis before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Cosmopolis in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.