Flights to Birch Creek, Central from NT$9,424

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a comfortable start to your vacation in Birch Creek. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Birch Creek in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.