Flights to Ilovik, Mali Losinj from NT$34,034

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Ilovik. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Ilovik in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.