Flights to Harlow, England from NT$20,531

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your time in Harlow.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Don layers of breathable clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case you get cold. Pick well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy hiking boots in your main luggage.
• The condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Doing foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this from happening. Wearing a pair of compression tights or socks can also help.

The trick is to be organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Harlow in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned.
• Traveling with a new perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.