Flights to Matagorda, Texas from NT$7,144

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your getaway in Matagorda. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good novel. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your important medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and opt for flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your trip to Matagorda quick and painless. Below you'll find some handy hints for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? 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're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.