Flights to Houma, Louisiana from NT$6,226

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Houma. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant 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 in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The secret is to be organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Houma in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.