Flights to Ridgeway, Virginia from NT$13,058

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a worry-free start to your getaway in Ridgeway. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are good options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Ridgeway before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.