Flights to Hillsdale, Dallas from NT$12,253

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a worry-free start to your time in Hillsdale. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose 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.

The secret is to be organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Hillsdale in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.