Flights to Mandeville, Louisiana from NT$28,111

If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Mandeville. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Mandeville in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.