Flights to Longbranch, Lakebay from NT$3,018

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your getaway in Longbranch. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your trip to Longbranch a pleasure. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.