Flights to Talgar, Almaty Region from NT$14,358

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Talgar. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting 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 gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Talgar in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.