Flights to Iriga, Bicol from NT$5,195

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your vacation in Iriga.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Layer up with loose, natural fibers and bring a cardigan in case you get cold. Pick roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and chunky boots in your checked baggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance travel is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression tights and socks are another simple way to help minimize this risk.

The trick is to be well organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Iriga in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, 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.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.