Flights to North Providence, Rhode Island from NT$29,278

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in North Providence. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and wear closed-toe, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out North Providence, here you come:

• Keep your ID and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.