Flights to Madurantakam, Tamil Nadu from NT$13,073

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your time in Madurantakam. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Madurantakam in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your travel documents and ID handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.