Flights to Meldrim, Bloomingdale from NT$13,740

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your time in Meldrim. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance 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.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Meldrim in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product 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.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.