Flights to Avoca, Tasmania from NT$5,899

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your time in Avoca. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and maybe a neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Avoca easy and painless. We've compiled some handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Have your passport and boarding pass at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.