Flights to Taos, New Mexico from NT$12,325

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks for a trouble-free start to your time in Taos. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and choose shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• 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 promote better circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Taos a breeze. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.