Flights to Dowell, Solomons from NT$3,275

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Dowell escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an airplane are not the place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and pack a sweater as the temperature can drop inside the cabin. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also a sensible choice.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There's lots you can do to reduce your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression tights or socks, stay well hydrated and get your legs and feet moving. Do a few laps of the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Dowell in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them close by so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.