Flights to Banaina, North Kalimantan from NT$9,255

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Banaina. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you pack the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good novel. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

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 your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being organized before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Banaina a piece of cake. Below you'll find some handy tips for a swift journey through security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.