Flights to Sami, Kefalonia from NT$4,602

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your getaway in Sami.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an aircraft are not the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and take a cardigan as the temperature can drop inside the cabin. Enclosed, flat shoes are always a good choice too.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long-haul is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help minimize this risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sami before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.