In the time it takes to drive from Tucson to Topeka, I have flown via jumbo jet as far from home as I have ever been. From LA to Taoyaun I watched three movies and still managed to grab a five-hour nap, even sitting upright. A 19-hour flight can be quite an ordeal. To make it easier on you if you decide to take a similar trip, here are my Commandments of Airline Travel, which are based on my experiences from this trip:
I. Check in On-line (or by electronic kiosk). For me, this saved a ton of time. Perhaps 300 people fit on a jumbo jet, which meant the line for economy check-in was about 250 people long. However, the dozen or so of us who checked in online flew through the process in minutes. It was like first class (without the legroom or free booze).
II. Expect Delays...Always. I know, never say always. But the exception to the rule is when flying. There are always problems. We checked online as we ran out the door for the airport and the website said the flight was on time. By the time we got to the airport, it had been delayed by nearly an hour. Then in Los Angeles, the computers at check-in crashed and they had to check everyone in on paper (the old fashioned way!). Speaking from experience and knowing people whose flights were canceled without warning, I highly stress this commandment.
III. Carry on does not always mean carry on. If there's something you want on the flight, take care where you store it. Both airlines I flew with said my roller bag was too big, and they stowed under the plane on both legs of the trip. At least it was free of charge.
IV. Bring Something for Entertainment. For elaboration, see Commandment II.