Flights to Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur from NT$868

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Batu Caves could be completely painless or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Batu Caves in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Keep your ID and travel documents at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil 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-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.