Flights to Bau, Kuching from NT$1,941

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Bau. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Bau, here you come:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.