Flights to Bollegala, Gonawala from NT$14,387

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Bollegala.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, travel docs, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to pack a pullover just in case you get chilly. Opt for a pair of flat, slightly roomy shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and chunky boots in your luggage.
• Most travelers are aware of DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There are plenty of ways to lower your risk. Wear a pair of compression socks or tights, drink lots of water and keep your legs and feet moving. Do a lap or two of the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Bollegala a piece of cake. Here are some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• 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 on board and will be confiscated.