Flights to Asuncion, Davao from NT$2,085

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Asuncion could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some tips that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze 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) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Asuncion in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.