Flights to Katy, Houston from NT$9,817

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 tips and tricks and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in Katy. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you pack the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and pick closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Katy in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything 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.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.