Flights to Ormoc, Eastern Visayas from NT$1,512

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Ormoc vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Ormoc before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your ID and travel documents at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.