Flights to Durham, West Grey from NT$4,518

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your vacation in Durham. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Durham before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.