Flights to San Francisco, Cartagena from NT$83,372

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a trouble-free start to your getaway in San Francisco. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before your flight will make your trip to San Francisco easy and painless. Read through our useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Have your boarding pass and ID at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.