Flights to Bagdad, Kentucky from NT$9,399

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

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Watch out Bagdad, here you come:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.