Flights to Exo Gialos, Santorini from NT$4,023

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be breezing through the airport and having a blast in Exo Gialos before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

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

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones 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 though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.