Flights to Cuenca, Calabarzon from NT$1,360

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Cuenca.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, travel docs, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in your choice of clothes. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your checked suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. There are numerous ways to lessen your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks, drink plenty of water and move your legs and feet. Do a lap or two of the cabin or perform some simple exercises in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Cuenca in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.