Flights to Jaffna, Northern Province from NT$10,551

If you're not prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your time in Jaffna. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable 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:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

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

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes 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.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.