Flights to Mashhad, Northern District from NT$26,009

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a stress-free start to your time in Mashhad. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and opt for flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Mashhad a piece of cake. Here are some handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.