Flights to McGrath, Alaska from NT$19,674

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well prepared. Follow these handy hints that will help get your McGrath escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to McGrath in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.