Flights to Kotroni, Pyli from NT$41,749

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Kotroni. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Kotroni in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.