Flights to Mount Lavinia, Western Province from NT$6,660

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Mount Lavinia vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

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 or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Mount Lavinia, here you come:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.