Flights to Malta, Ballston Spa from NT$19,512

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. We've made a list of handy hints that will get your Malta escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Malta easy and painless. Here are some handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• Keep your travel documents and ID easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner 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-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.