Flights to Alavus, Southern Ostrobothnia from NT$39,198

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. Check out these handy tips and tricks that will get your Alavus escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Alavus before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.