Flights to Primera, Harlingen from NT$37,234

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your getaway in Primera. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for an easy trip through airport security. Watch out Primera, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.