Flights to El Nido, Mimaropa from NT$1,366

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your time in El Nido. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to El Nido before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.