Flights to Caracas, Miranda from NT$71,127

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Caracas could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before your flight can make your trip to Caracas a piece of cake. Read through our handy hints for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.