Flights to Pasadena, Houston from NT$4,430

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Pasadena could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. We've rounded up some tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right things. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a good book. Next, find room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers 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 avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Don layers of natural fibers and don't forget to pack a pullover just in case you get chilly. Always opt for well-fitting, flat shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the journey. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your main luggage.
• You've probably heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There are plenty of ways to mitigate your risk. Don a pair of compression tights or socks, drink lots of water and get your legs and feet moving. Walk the aisles of the cabin or perform some simple exercises in your seat.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Pasadena quick and painless. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them close by so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.