Flights to Mahwah, New Jersey from NT$28,969

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your time in Mahwah. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and wear flat, closed-toe footwear like slip-ons.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Mahwah before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.