Flights to Ailafushi, Kaafu Atoll from NT$6,345

If you're not prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Ailafushi. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Ailafushi in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.