Flights to Mount Vernon, Alexandria from NT$17,956

If you're not prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your time in Mount Vernon. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, travel documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity 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 temperature by dressing in layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's simple — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Mount Vernon, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of 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.