Flights to Padang, Malacca City from NT$2,511

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Padang. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Padang, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.