Flights to Malia, Hersonissos from NT$2,406

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Malia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and pick flat, enclosed footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Malia, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.