Flights to Ruislip, London from NT$19,136

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

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Layer yourself up in breathable clothing and bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin. Always opt for roomy, flat shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the flight. Leave the high heels and heavy boots in your luggage.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. The great news is there are ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, wander around the cabin whenever possible and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Ruislip quick and painless. Check out our useful tips for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to have your ID and travel documents close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.