Flights to Silver City, Rapid City from NT$14,562

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your vacation in Silver City. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

Being organized before your flight will help make your trip to Silver City a pleasure. Here are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.