Flights to Dunga Gali, Abbottabad from NT$19,475

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a worry-free start to your getaway in Dunga Gali. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Dunga Gali before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Have your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take 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), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.