Flights to Sugar Land, Houston from NT$5,133

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

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and wear flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Sugar Land in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.