Flights to Whiskeytown, Shasta from NT$48,455

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a worry-free start to your time in Whiskeytown.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Layer up in natural-fiber clothing and pack a jacket in case you get cold. Opt for a pair of well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your checked baggage.
• It's likely you've heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are plenty of ways to lower your risk. Wear a pair of compression socks or tights, stay well hydrated and move your legs and feet. Walk around the cabin when possible or try out some exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Whiskeytown a piece of cake. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.