Flights to Hitchin, England from NT$15,157

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Hitchin.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, important documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight often lies in your choice in clothes. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your checked suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will appreciate it.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-haul flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression tights and socks are another great idea to help minimize this risk.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Hitchin in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the 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.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.