Flights to Butterworth, Penang from NT$1,025

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Butterworth. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

Being prepared before your flight will make your trip to Butterworth a piece of cake. Here are some top tips for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.