Flights to Soquel, California from NT$6,429

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Soquel. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a good book. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out Soquel, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.