Flights to White Rock, Los Alamos from NT$30,073

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in White Rock. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of 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.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your trip to White Rock a breeze. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater 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 valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.