Flights to Madiun, East Java from NT$5,966

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will get your Madiun escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and opt for slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Madiun in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.