Flights to Blue Jay, Lake Arrowhead from NT$5,266

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will get your Blue Jay escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

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

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.