Flights to Makhanda, Eastern Cape from NT$41,165

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Makhanda. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's all about being organized. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Makhanda, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.