Flights to Paros, South Aegean from NT$43,219

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Paros. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Paros easy and painless. Below you'll find some handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.