Flights to Thornton, Stockton from NT$4,715

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Thornton.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack in your passport, important documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight is often as simple as your clothing choices. Prepare for temperature changes by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left in your suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-distance travel is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To avoid this, make the most of every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are also a great idea to help lower your risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Thornton in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.