Flights to Great Barrington, Massachusetts from NT$31,518

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in Great Barrington. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your important medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Great Barrington in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind 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 faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.