Flights to Sylmar, Los Angeles from NT$11,015

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a hassle-free start to your time in Sylmar. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Sylmar in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, 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), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.