Flights to Riverside, Connecticut from NT$26,487

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Riverside. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's all about being organized. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Riverside, here you come:

• Have your boarding pass and ID easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually 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.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.