Flights to Cypress, Houston from NT$5,221

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Cypress.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your prime concern when selecting what to wear on your flight. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common side effect of flying. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are always a smart option.
• The serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking up and down the aisle and doing foot and leg exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this developing. Wearing a good pair of compression socks may also help.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Cypress in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Keep your travel documents and passport easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, 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), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.