Flights to Westminster, Maryland from NT$13,425

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through the airport and discovering Westminster in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll touchdown feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Westminster in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID close by. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.