Flights to Boston, Väddö from NT$19,285

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well enough. We've put together a list of handy hints that will get your Boston escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any vital medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Boston in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids 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 in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.