Flights to Cushendall, Ballymena from NT$2,385

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. We've made a list of handy hints that will help get your Cushendall vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Cushendall a piece of cake. Check out our handy hints for a speedy journey through security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.