Flights to Cardona, Catalonia from NT$5,314

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Cardona. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be well organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Cardona in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID close by. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray 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 through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.