Flights to Monte Rio, California from NT$4,344

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these top travel tips that will get your Monte Rio vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Monte Rio a breeze. Below are some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand 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 in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.