Flights to Silhouette Island, Seychelles from NT$26,854

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Silhouette Island. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you carry the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Silhouette Island in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.