Flights to Woods Hole, Massachusetts from NT$16,557

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Woods Hole could be completely painless or it could go on forever. We've put together some handy hints that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The secret is to be organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Woods Hole in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Keep your passport and travel documents close by. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport 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 such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.