Flights to Bolifushi Island, Kaafu Atoll from NT$7,360

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints for a comfortable start to your getaway in Bolifushi Island.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board 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 earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing 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 air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Don layers of natural fibers and take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin. Pick flat, well-fitting shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the journey. Leave the stilettos and hiking boots in your checked luggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long-haul is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another great idea to help reduce this risk.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your trip to Bolifushi Island easy and painless. Read through our handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.