Flights to Batang, Central Java from NT$5,264

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Batang. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some useful tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Batang, here you come:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.