Flights to Jacksonville, Roanoke from NT$9,712

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Jacksonville. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you take the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good read. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

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

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.