Flights to Portsmouth, Virginia from NT$8,712

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a hassle-free start to your time in Portsmouth. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you carry the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Portsmouth in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.