Flights to Dipolog, Zamboanga Peninsula from NT$2,718

If you're not prepared, traveling can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Dipolog. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before your flight will make your getaway to Dipolog easy and painless. Read through our useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Keep your ID and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on 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 inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.