Flights to Mertens, Texas from NT$23,431

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey a pleasant experience. Follow our tips and you'll be hightailing it through the airport and seeing the best of Mertens in next to no time.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Layer yourself up in breathable clothing and take a cardigan in case you get cold. Pick a pair of flat, slightly roomy shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy hiking boots in your luggage.
• The serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises while seated helps to prevent this developing. Wearing a good pair of compression socks can also help.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Mertens, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.