Flights to Lamont, Bakersfield from NT$13,200

If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Lamont. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

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 go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Lamont a breeze. Check out our handy tips for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, 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 your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• 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 and will be confiscated.