Flights to Otis, Massachusetts from NT$15,759

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Otis. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out Otis, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.