Flights to Basirhat, West Bengal from NT$5,292

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Basirhat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed 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 on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Basirhat in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.