Flights to Colorado, Smithville from NT$4,937

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Colorado. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Colorado a pleasure. Below are some handy hints for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with a new cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.