Flights to Pinchart, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve from NT$7,425

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Pinchart.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Dress in loose, natural fibers and take a cardigan just in case you get chilly. Pick a pair of flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and heavy boots in your main luggage.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. But the great news is there are ways to reduce the risk of developing it. Keep your fluids up, get up and walk around the cabin whenever possible and wear compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Pinchart before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to 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 no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.