Flights to Whitman, Boston from NT$9,685

If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a stress-free start to your vacation in Whitman. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and choose shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Whitman in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Keep your passport and boarding pass within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.