Flights to Gwangju, Gyeonggi from NT$1,180

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in Gwangju. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you take the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a good book. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel 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 pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your trip to Gwangju easy and painless. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with a new perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• 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 baggage. They won't be allowed on board.