Flights to Al Ghariyah, Al Shamal from NT$17,966

If you're not prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your time in Al Ghariyah.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your suitcase. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you for it.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. The good news is there are ways to reduce your risk of developing it. Keep your fluids up, get up and walk around the cabin as much as you can and wear compression tights or socks.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Al Ghariyah a piece of cake. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and ID handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, 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.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.