Flights to Marudi, Sarawak from NT$1,063

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your time in Marudi.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is often as simple as the clothes you wear. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets chilly. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left in your checked suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. But the great news is there are ways to significantly reduce your risk of developing it. Keep your fluids up, wander around the cabin as much as possible and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Marudi in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• 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.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.