Flights to Mathiveri, North Ari Atoll from NT$6,054

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Mathiveri.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy --- first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when picking what to wear on your flight. Consider your footwear choice carefully too, as swollen feet and ankles are a common occurrence. Slightly roomy, flat shoes work well.
• The serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises while seated helps to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a high-quality pair of compression socks also helps reduce your risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Mathiveri in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.