Flights to Dirkshorn, North Holland from NT$6,073

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Dirkshorn. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

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 choose shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Dirkshorn easy and painless. Check out our handy hints for a speedy journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.