Flights to Praslin, St. Lucia from NT$8,757

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Praslin. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The secret is to be organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Praslin before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.