Flights to Alexandria, Eastern Cape from NT$13,360

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Alexandria. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Alexandria a piece of cake. Below are some handy hints for a speedy journey through security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.