Flights to Westbroek, Utrecht from NT$12,874

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Westbroek. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Westbroek in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.