Flights to Crowcombe, Taunton from NT$2,788

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Crowcombe. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Crowcombe in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• 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 baggage. They won't be allowed on board.