Flights to Marathon, Texas from NT$31,477

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your time in Marathon. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you plan to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

The secret is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Marathon in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.