Flights to Sunset Beach, North Carolina from NT$16,186

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Sunset Beach. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you bring the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Sunset Beach a pleasure. Below you'll find some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Traveling with a new cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever 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.