Flights to Shongweni, Outer West Durban from NT$34,366

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've compiled a list of handy tips that will help get your Shongweni escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any vital medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Shongweni a piece of cake. We've compiled some handy tips for a swift journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.