Flights to Manak-kol, Geumsan from NT$4,289

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your vacation in Manak-kol. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out Manak-kol, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually 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 single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.