Flights to Paarl, Cape Town from NT$7,594

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. We've compiled a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Paarl vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Paarl in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, 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). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.