Flights to Apataki, The Tuamotu and Gambier Islands from

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your vacation in Apataki. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

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

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also likely that you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.