Flights to Boston, New York from NT$4,963

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your getaway in Boston. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Boston in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.