Flights to Porth, Cardiff from NT$23,973

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Porth. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Porth in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.