Flights to Bessemer, Birmingham from NT$30,900

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your vacation in Bessemer. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, find room in your bag for your phone and charger, your medications and maybe a neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Bessemer easy and painless. Below you'll find some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.