Flights to Franeker, Friesland from NT$19,458

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're prepared. Check out these handy hints that will get your Franeker escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Franeker before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.