Flights to Cuba, New Mexico from NT$27,237

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Cuba.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight is often as simple as the clothes you wear. Prepare for changes in temperature by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your suitcase. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you for it.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. There are numerous ways to lower your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression tights or socks, drink lots of water and move your legs and feet. Walk the aisles of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your getaway to Cuba easy and painless. Below you'll find some top tips for a swift journey past security:

• Have your ID and travel documents handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually 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.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.