Flights to Mesapol, Sipitang from NT$1,933

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Mesapol. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a good read. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave 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 authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is simple — be organized. We've compiled some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Mesapol, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.