Flights to Buckhurst Hill, London from NT$1,953

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a worry-free start to your time in Buckhurst Hill. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Buckhurst Hill in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Have your ID and boarding pass close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Pocket 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 luggage.