Flights to Rochester, Minnesota from NT$12,043

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Rochester. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Rochester before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Keep your travel documents and ID within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.