Flights to Cedars, Montreal from NT$5,963

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Cedars vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top 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 sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Cedars quick and painless. Here are some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with a new perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.