Flights to Oak Hammock, Harkers Island from NT$8,232

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your vacation in Oak Hammock. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, 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 airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Oak Hammock quick and painless. We've compiled some handy hints for a speedy journey through security:

• Keep your passport and travel documents within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.