Flights to Loukia, Gortyna from NT$21,916

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Loukia escape started on the right note. 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, travel docs, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is simple — be organized. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Loukia, here you come:

• Keep your passport and travel documents handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray 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.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.