Flights to San Anselmo, California from NT$2,941

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in San Anselmo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out San Anselmo, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.