Flights to Jelgava, Latvia from NT$27,369

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Jelgava could be a piece of cake or it could go on forever. Here are some useful travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice of clothing. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin gets chilly. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left in your suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will appreciate it.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There are many ways to lower your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks, stay hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Wander around the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Jelgava a breeze. Below are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product 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.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.