Flights to Bal Harbour, Miami from NT$26,843

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Bal Harbour could be as easy as pie or it could go on forever. Below are some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are some great options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Bal Harbour in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.