Flights to Higuey, La Altagracia from NT$19,005

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Higuey. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Higuey, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of 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.