Flights to Manilva, from NT$4,972

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Manilva. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Manilva quick and painless. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item 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.
• There's a chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.