Flights to Lapua, Southern Ostrobothnia from NT$38,060

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Lapua. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a pleasure if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Lapua a piece of cake. Below you'll find some top tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.