Flights to Leigh-on-Sea, England from NT$9,612

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Leigh-on-Sea. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The answer is simple — be organized. We've put together some top tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Leigh-on-Sea, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.