Flights to Mad Creek, Steamboat Springs from NT$7,536

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Mad Creek could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. Below are some tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of 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.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Mad Creek before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.