Flights to Bitung, North Sulawesi from NT$6,472

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Bitung. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Bitung in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.