Flights to Mount Hagen, Western Highlands from NT$78,865

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Mount Hagen. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The secret is to be well organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Mount Hagen in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must 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.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.