Flights to Woodside, Dover from NT$8,173

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 for a hassle-free start to your time in Woodside. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, 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:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, slightly roomy shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out Woodside, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.