Flights to Middle River, Baltimore from NT$6,165

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Middle River. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Middle River in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.