Flights to Livonia, New York from NT$36,144

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Livonia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items 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 conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Livonia in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.