Flights to Paea, Windward Islands from NT$17,568

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Paea.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

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 gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Layer up with loose, natural-fiber clothing and pack a cardigan just in case you get cold. Opt for flat, slightly roomy shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your checked baggage.
• The condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Doing foot and leg exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this occurring. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights also helps reduce the risk.

It's easy — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Paea, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.