Flights to Thabazimbi, Limpopo from NT$14,355

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Thabazimbi. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss 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 restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Thabazimbi quick and painless. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.