Flights to Pitt Meadows, British Columbia from NT$2,558

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Pitt Meadows. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Pitt Meadows in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container 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 practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.