Flights to West Newbury, Massachusetts from NT$22,017

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your getaway in West Newbury. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to West Newbury in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.