Flights to Castlerock, Southland from NT$20,753

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 helpful hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Castlerock. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and pick flat, closed-toe shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before your flight will make your trip to Castlerock a pleasure. Below are some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.