Flights to Manakamana, Gandaki from NT$13,380

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your getaway in Manakamana. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

Being organized before your flight will help make your trip to Manakamana easy and painless. We've compiled some handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport 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 set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.