Flights to Hopkinton, Massachusetts from NT$25,720

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a worry-free start to your vacation in Hopkinton.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on board. Consider your footwear choice with care too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are a common side effect of flying. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a good idea.
• It's likely you've heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. There's lots you can do to minimize your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks, drink lots of water often and move your legs and feet. Wander up and down the aisles of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

The trick is to be organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Hopkinton in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.