Flights to Gathanga, Nairobi from NT$19,566

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a worry-free start to your getaway in Gathanga. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Gathanga a pleasure. Below are some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items 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 need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is 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.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.