Flights to San Diego, San José from NT$12,241

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to San Diego could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some useful tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. 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 docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to San Diego in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.