Flights to Gouda, Rotterdam from NT$18,270

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your time in Gouda.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set 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 baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is often as simple as your choice in clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your checked suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• Most travelers have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There are many ways to reduce your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression tights or socks, drink lots of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Do a lap or two of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Gouda quick and painless. Read through our handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item 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-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.