Flights to Blue Anchor, Minehead from NT$35,301

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a comfortable start to your getaway in Blue Anchor.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you plan to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your priority when choosing what to wear on board. Consider your footwear with care too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are quite common. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are always a good idea.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. There's lots you can do to lessen your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks, drink lots of water and get your legs and feet moving. Do a few laps of the cabin or perform some simple exercises in your seat.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Blue Anchor, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.