Flights to Hempstead, New York from NT$27,215

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your time in Hempstead. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, find room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Hempstead before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Have your passport and boarding pass handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.