Flights to Lax, Valais from NT$7,388

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Lax could be as easy as pie or it could go on forever. We've compiled some tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• 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.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Lax before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.