Flights to Harvard, Pittsburg from NT$16,078

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will get your Harvard vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

It's all about being prepared. We've put together some useful tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Harvard, here you come:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and passport within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• 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 your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.