Flights to Waltham, Canterbury from NT$3,094

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Waltham escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and pick flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Waltham before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.