Flights to Stamping Ground, Lexington from NT$27,555

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy tips that will get your Stamping Ground vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Stamping Ground before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.