Flights to Coatepec, Veracruz from NT$86,933

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Coatepec. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

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 nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, 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:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Coatepec in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.