Flights to Beliong, Sarawak from NT$1,148

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Beliong. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

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

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• 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 great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.