Flights to Almere, Flevoland from NT$17,669

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Almere. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Almere before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Be sure to keep your ID and travel documents within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.