Flights to Merrillan, Wisconsin from NT$14,631

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your time in Merrillan. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, 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 restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Merrillan in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Want to bring along 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-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.