Flights to Polk City, Des Moines from NT$12,105

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Polk City could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

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 screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Polk City easy and painless. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock 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.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.