Flights to Matamanoa Island, Western Division from NT$26,066

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a comfortable start to your getaway in Matamanoa Island. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, important documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Matamanoa Island in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually 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 suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.