Flights to Center City, Minnesota from NT$6,872

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Center City. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to take a short nap, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like slip-ons.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Center City in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume or cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.