Flights to Silsoe, Bedford from NT$28,400

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a worry-free start to your getaway in Silsoe. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck 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 can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and pick flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Silsoe in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.