Flights to Shirley, Juan de Fuca Electoral Area from NT$27,075

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Shirley escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

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

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and ID handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner 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.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.