Flights to Monticello, Minnesota from NT$8,211

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. Take a peek at these handy travel tips that will get your Monticello escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Monticello in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.