Flights to West Point, Mississippi from NT$26,088

If you're not prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your time in West Point. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and wear flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to West Point in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.