Flights to Parangipettai, Bhuvanagiri from NT$4,872

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Parangipettai could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, important documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are good options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Parangipettai in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.