Flights to Makati, Manila from NT$1,473

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Makati vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Makati a pleasure. We've compiled some top tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.