Flights to Marangu, Kilimanjaro Region from NT$28,635

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these handy hints that will get your Marangu escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Marangu a piece of cake. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product 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.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.