Flights to Yercaud, Tamil Nadu from NT$2,390

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your vacation in Yercaud. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries 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 prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and wear easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Yercaud, here you come:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.