Flights to Au, Vorarlberg from NT$35,763

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Au. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

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 slip on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Au a breeze. Here are some useful tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.