Flights to Dipaculao, Central Luzon from NT$2,690

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Dipaculao. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Most travelers are aware of 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 tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Dipaculao in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and 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 have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.