Flights to Pasadena, Houston from NT$7,150

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Pasadena. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before your flight will help make your getaway to Pasadena a piece of cake. We've compiled some handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product 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 sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.