Flights to Newport, Wales from NT$31,528

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Newport. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you take the right stuff. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Newport in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Have your passport and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.