Flights to Brooklyn, Cleveland from NT$9,346

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a stress-free start to your getaway in Brooklyn. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Brooklyn, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.