Flights to Raton, New Mexico from NT$39,375

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. We've compiled a list of top travel tips that will help get your Raton vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and pick slightly roomy, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Raton in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.