Flights to Parrot Cay, North Caicos from NT$59,470

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a comfortable start to your vacation in Parrot Cay. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any vital medications and maybe a neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Parrot Cay a pleasure. Below are some useful tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID close by. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. 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 phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring 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-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.