Flights to Southfield, Massachusetts from NT$31,648

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a stress-free start to your time in Southfield. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, important documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Southfield, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.