Flights to Richmond, California from NT$9,738

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Richmond. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your trip to Richmond easy and painless. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.