Flights to Selma, Fresno from NT$15,916

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Selma. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, official ID, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Selma, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.