Flights to Northborough, Massachusetts from NT$15,026

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Northborough. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Northborough in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to have your ID and travel documents close by. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.