Flights to San Francisco, Central Visayas from NT$1,257

If you're not prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in San Francisco.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you pack the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack 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. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your prime concern when choosing what to wear on your flight. Consider your choice of footwear carefully too, as swollen feet are a common side effect of flying. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a good idea.
• A serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this happening. Wearing a quality pair of compression tights or socks is also a wise idea.

It's easy — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out San Francisco, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.