Flights to La Estrella, Pivijay from NT$13,060

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in La Estrella. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to La Estrella in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.