Flights to Hambleden, Henley-on-Thames from NT$2,126

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your time in Hambleden.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your important medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be the goal when selecting what to wear on board. Consider your choice of footwear carefully too, as swollen ankles and feet are quite common. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are always a good idea.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a serious condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. But the good news is there are numerous ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, wander around the cabin as much as possible and wear compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your trip to Hambleden a piece of cake. Below are some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.