Flights to Goroka, Eastern Highlands from NT$56,342

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your vacation in Goroka. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your getaway to Goroka a pleasure. Below are some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.