Flights to Hancock, New York from NT$32,917

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your time in Hancock.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, important documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to pack a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin. Go for a pair of well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and hiking boots in your main luggage.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-haul flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To prevent this, make the most of every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression socks and tights are also a great idea to help minimize this risk.

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

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.