Flights to Spring, Houston from NT$9,073

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Spring. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a good read. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Spring a piece of cake. Below you'll find some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Have your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• 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 trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often 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 single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.