Flights to Braidwood, Carluke from NT$19,571

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

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on board. Consider your footwear with care too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common side effect of flying. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are always a smart option.
• Most travelers have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There are numerous ways to minimize your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks, stay well hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Do a few laps of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Braidwood before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.