Flights to San Saba, Texas from NT$4,971

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to San Saba could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to San Saba in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. 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 laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.