Flights to Julia, Catalonia from NT$2,445

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Julia could be a breeze or it could go on forever. We've put together some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change 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 avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Julia before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually 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 inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.