Flights to Short Hills, Newark from NT$26,619

If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Short Hills. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Short Hills in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.