Flights to Houten, Utrecht from NT$17,752

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Houten could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. Here are some useful travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Houten quick and painless. Here are some handy tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.