Flights to Lowell, Massachusetts from NT$5,286

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Lowell. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, important documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Lowell in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.