Flights to Patrick Springs, Virginia from NT$8,124

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your vacation in Patrick Springs. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, 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 will help make your getaway to Patrick Springs quick and painless. Below are some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your ID and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.