Flights to Gumaca, Calabarzon from NT$1,271

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. We've made a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Gumaca escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Gumaca before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. 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 phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.