Flights to Mabini, Calabarzon from NT$1,438

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your time in Mabini. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Mabini in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.