Flights to San Marino, Los Angeles from NT$17,354

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pleasant start to your time in San Marino. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some great options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out San Marino, here you come:

• Keep your passport and travel documents within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.