Flights to Bagabag, Cagayan Valley from NT$2,327

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Bagabag. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

Being organized before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Bagabag easy and painless. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your ID and travel documents within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Your jacket, belt, 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.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? As long as it's in a container 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 baggage.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.