Flights to Erzin, Hatay from NT$63,055

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're prepared. Check out these handy tips that will get your Erzin vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, travel docs, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Erzin in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents close by. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.