Flights to Cole Bay, Sint Maarten from NT$19,015

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints for a stress-free start to your time in Cole Bay. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh 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 of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some top tips for an easy trip through security. Look out Cole Bay, here you come:

• Be sure to have your passport and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually 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 in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.