Flights to Darien, Connecticut from NT$8,073

If you're not prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Darien. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh set of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out Darien, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.