Flights to San Francisco, San José from NT$11,473

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in San Francisco. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Watch out San Francisco, here you come:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? Not a 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 can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.