Flights to De Soto, Missouri from NT$9,426

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in De Soto. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being prepared before your flight will help make your getaway to De Soto a pleasure. Here are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your passport and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.