Flights to Delano, Minneapolis - St. Paul from NT$5,453

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Delano. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, important documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to slip 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. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Delano a breeze. We've compiled some handy hints for a swift journey past security:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.