Flights to Grand Dakar, Dakar from NT$18,226

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your time in Grand Dakar. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Grand Dakar, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.