Flights to Saint Paul, Oregon from NT$4,971

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in Saint Paul. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of 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.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out Saint Paul, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.