Flights to San Miguel Island, California from NT$7,292

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your time in San Miguel Island.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice in clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left in your checked suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will appreciate it.
• It's likely you've heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There's plenty you can do to reduce your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks, stay well hydrated and move your legs and feet. Do a few laps of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to San Miguel Island in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, 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-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in 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.