Flights to Ards, County Leitrim from NT$49,936

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your vacation in Ards. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Ards, here you come:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.