Flights to Malden, Missouri from NT$26,858

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your time in Malden. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, 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:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Malden in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.