Flights to Ban Chang, from NT$10,185

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Ban Chang. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Ban Chang in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.