Flights to Pearl River, New York from NT$5,856

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. Check out these handy hints that will get your Pearl River escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Pearl River in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.