Flights to El Sobrante, California from NT$3,457

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will help get your El Sobrante escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you take the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any daily medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and wear flat, easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to El Sobrante before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.