Flights to Novato, California from NT$4,086

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints for a stress-free start to your vacation in Novato.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, 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:

• The key to a comfortable flight can be as simple as the clothes you wear. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you later.
• It's likely you've heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are many ways to lower your risk. Wear compression socks, stay well hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Do a lap or two of the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your trip to Novato a breeze. Read through our handy tips for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• 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 quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.