Flights to Cong, County Mayo from NT$92,486

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Cong. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find room in your bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a blow-up 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:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Cong in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.