Flights to Chebeague Island, Maine from NT$36,017

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. We've made a list of handy tips that will help get your Chebeague Island escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

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 liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and pick closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged 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.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Chebeague Island in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra 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.