Flights to Keelung, Taiwan from NT$2,346

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a worry-free start to your getaway in Keelung.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your prime concern when choosing what to wear on your flight. Consider your footwear choice carefully too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are a common side effect of flying. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are also a great idea to help reduce this risk.

A little pre-planning before your flight will make your getaway to Keelung quick and painless. Read through our useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Keep your travel documents and passport easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with a new perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.