Flights to Alton, England from NT$15,511

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your vacation in Alton. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and opt for flat, enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Alton in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass handy. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.