Flights to Hirwaun, Aberdare from NT$9,076

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be breezing through airport security and enjoying Hirwaun in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop 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 banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Hirwaun in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater 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 be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.