Flights to Chigwell, London from NT$17,043

If you're not prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your vacation in Chigwell. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, important documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Chigwell in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.