Flights to Anlu, Xiaogan from NT$7,000

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a comfortable start to your getaway in Anlu. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've compiled some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out Anlu, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.