Flights to Alexandria, Pennsylvania from NT$12,300

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your getaway in Alexandria. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you've got all the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Alexandria, here you come:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.