Flights to Warrior, Alabama from NT$21,424

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Warrior. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

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 avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Warrior in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.