Flights to Avoca, County Wicklow from NT$4,332

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Avoca.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo 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 security. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Don layers of breathable clothing and bring a pullover just in case you get chilly. Always go with roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell a little during the journey. Leave the stilettos and heavy hiking boots in your checked luggage.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There are many ways to lessen your risk. Don a pair of compression socks, stay hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Do a lap or two of the cabin or perform some stretches in your seat.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Avoca easy and painless. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.