Flights to San Francisco Sola, Oaxaca from NT$6,312

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your getaway in San Francisco Sola. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out San Francisco Sola, here you come:

• Have your boarding pass and ID close by. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.