Flights to Mount Jackson, Virginia from NT$9,000

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your vacation in Mount Jackson. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Mount Jackson in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.