Flights to Karave, Gavdos from NT$29,595

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a worry-free start to your time in Karave. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, put in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Karave in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray 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-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.