Flights to Wijdenes, North Holland from NT$4,442

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your time in Wijdenes. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, important documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and pick easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organized before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Wijdenes a breeze. Below are some handy hints for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.