Flights to Sandisfield, Massachusetts from NT$18,674

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Sandisfield. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Most travelers have 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 and keep your feet and legs moving.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Sandisfield, here you come:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.