Flights to Stabat, North Sumatra from NT$2,277

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. Check out these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Stabat vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, important documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll touchdown looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Stabat a breeze. Below are some top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Have your ID and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.