Flights to Lefke, Northern Cyprus from NT$5,799

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Lefke. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

The trick is to be well organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Lefke in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.