Flights to Whipsnade, Dunstable from NT$2,593

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Whipsnade. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Whipsnade in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.