Flights to Washington, Kansas from NT$46,441

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Washington.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in your choice of clothing. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left for other occasions. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will appreciate it.
• It's likely you've heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. There are plenty of ways to minimize your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks, stay hydrated and get your legs and feet moving. Wander around the cabin or perform some stretches in your seat.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Washington quick and painless. Below you'll find some handy tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.