Flights to Gaya Island, Sabah from NT$1,136

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. We've compiled a list of handy travel tips that will get your Gaya Island escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight is often as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare for changes in temperature by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left for other occasions. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will appreciate it.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance travel is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another easy way to help minimize this risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Gaya Island in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.