Flights to Apalos, Alexandroupoli from NT$39,317

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your vacation in Apalos. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and wear flat, easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Apalos a breeze. We've rounded up some top tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.