Flights to Medical Lake, Washington from NT$19,853

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Medical Lake. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and wear easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Medical Lake before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Keep your travel documents and ID easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine 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-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.