Flights to Sipadan Island, Sabah from NT$934

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Sipadan Island. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Sipadan Island in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your passport and boarding pass within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.