Flights to Ranau, Sabah from NT$1,295

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your time in Ranau. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, official ID, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Ranau, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.