Flights to Donaghadee, Northern Ireland from NT$2,330

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Donaghadee could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, like aerosols and matches, 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. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Donaghadee before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.