Flights to Hawkhurst, Cranbrook from NT$3,142

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Hawkhurst. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Hawkhurst in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray 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-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.