Flights to Nikolai, Alaska from NT$9,386

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Nikolai.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some great options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be the goal when choosing what to wear on board. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swollen ankles and feet can be a side effect of flying. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• A serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation. Doing leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this occurring. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights is also a wise idea.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your trip to Nikolai a pleasure. Below are some top tips for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.