Flights to Shandaken, New York from NT$19,196

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Shandaken. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Shandaken a piece of cake. Read through our useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• 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 on board.