Flights to Haines, Alaska from NT$20,010

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Haines vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Haines, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.