Flights to Utsjoki, Lapland from NT$7,768

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Utsjoki. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Utsjoki easy and painless. Check out our handy hints for a swift journey past security:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.