Flights to Princeton, Dallas from NT$5,953

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Princeton escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and wear flat, enclosed footwear like slip-ons.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Princeton in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.