Flights to Ankola, Karnataka from NT$2,410

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Ankola. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a pleasure if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your phone and charger, your medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged 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.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Ankola in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil 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 chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.