Flights to Cortes, Central Visayas from NT$1,699

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of handy hints that will get your Cortes escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for an easy trip through airport security. Watch out Cortes, here you come:

• Keep your passport and travel documents at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.