Flights to Buitrago del Lozoya, Community of Madrid from NT$12,354

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in Buitrago del Lozoya.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some great options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Don layers of breathable clothing and don't forget to pack a cardigan just in case you get cold. Opt for flat, well-fitting shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the journey. Leave the high heels 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 prolonged inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another simple way to help reduce this risk.

A little pre-planning before your flight will make your getaway to Buitrago del Lozoya a pleasure. Below are some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.