Flights to Lafayette, California from NT$4,186

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Lafayette. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Lafayette in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Have your ID and travel documents handy. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.