Flights to Central Park, Aberdeen from NT$5,423

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these handy tips that will get your Central Park escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your getaway to Central Park a breeze. Check out our handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.