Flights to El Remate, Flores from NT$6,375

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a worry-free start to your vacation in El Remate. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

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 nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to El Remate in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine 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-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky 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, put them in your checked luggage.