Flights to Cherpu, Thrissur from NT$6,507

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Cherpu.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight can be as simple as the clothes you wear. Prepare for changes in temperature by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you later.
• A serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking up and down the aisle and doing foot and leg exercises while seated helps to prevent this developing. Wearing a quality pair of compression socks is also recommended.

The trick is to be well organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Cherpu before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.