Flights to Heraklion, Crete from NT$2,573

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Heraklion. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a pleasure if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean pair of socks and a good read. Next, make room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

A little pre-planning before your flight will make your trip to Heraklion a breeze. We've rounded up some handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.