Flights to Gum Spring, Virginia from NT$48,274

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Gum Spring. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel docs, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Gum Spring in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.