Flights to Pörtschach, Muehlen from NT$12,715

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a comfortable start to your getaway in Pörtschach. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and opt for slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Pörtschach before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Have your passport and travel documents handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. 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 laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.