Flights to Damascus, Maryland from NT$26,666

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Damascus vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is often as simple as your clothing choices. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your suitcase. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you later.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. But the good news is there are proven ways to lower your risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, get up and wander the aisles as often as you can and wear compression socks or tights.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Damascus in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.