Flights to Richmond, Indiana from NT$17,386

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Richmond. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is simple — be organized. We've rounded up some top tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Richmond, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. 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 tablet, phone and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.