Flights to Pinecrest, California from NT$14,073

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Pinecrest. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a good book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

It's all about being organized. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Pinecrest, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often 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 in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.