Flights to Middle Brook, Missouri from NT$26,367

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your vacation in Middle Brook. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Middle Brook in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.