Flights to Chelsea, Boston from NT$14,725

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

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

Being organized before you get to the airport will make your trip to Chelsea easy and painless. Here are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• 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 in the cabin.