Flights to Banner Elk, North Carolina from NT$34,294

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Banner Elk. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Banner Elk in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Have your ID and boarding pass at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, 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 arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.