Flights to Maafushivaru, South Ari Atoll from NT$12,118

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Maafushivaru. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Maafushivaru in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Have your passport and boarding pass close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. 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 before your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.