Flights to Cat Cat Village, Sa Pa from NT$3,471

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Cat Cat Village. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Cat Cat Village, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.