Flights to Balbriggan, County Fingal from NT$5,246

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Balbriggan could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. Below are some handy tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Balbriggan before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Keep your passport and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Traveling with a new cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.