Flights to Downton, Salisbury from NT$32,441

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

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Downton in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Be sure to keep your ID and boarding pass close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.