Flights to Pennal, Machynlleth from NT$28,024

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these handy tips that will help get your Pennal vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for flat, easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Pennal in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine 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.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.