Flights to Homestead, Iowa from NT$25,569

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Homestead. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good book. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before your flight will make your trip to Homestead a piece of cake. Read through our handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to see 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.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.