Flights to Searsport, Maine from NT$17,533

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your vacation in Searsport.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put 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 a pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight can be as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your checked suitcase. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• The serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this occurring. Wearing a quality pair of compression tights or socks is also recommended.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Searsport in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.