Flights to Mulu, Sarawak from NT$1,869

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

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of an aircraft are not the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and bring a sweater as it tends to get cool inside the cabin. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are always a good choice too.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long distances is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help minimize this risk.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Mulu before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. 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 quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.