Flights to Hel, Poland from NT$5,735

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Hel. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's all about being organized. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Hel, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.