Flights to Patitiri, Alonissos from NT$46,313

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your time in Patitiri. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Patitiri before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, 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 such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock 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 have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.