Flights to Blacksod, County Mayo from NT$45,993

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Blacksod. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, your important medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be well organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Blacksod in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, 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.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.