Flights to Ketchikan, Alaska from NT$17,190

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey a pleasant experience. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be hightailing it through airport security and seeing the best of Ketchikan in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your bag for your phone and charger, your medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organized before you get to the airport can make your trip to Ketchikan a piece of cake. Below are some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.