Flights to Lake Cowichan, British Columbia from NT$22,244

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Lake Cowichan. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a good read. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

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 avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

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

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.