Flights to Riga, Churchville from NT$38,439

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Riga could be as easy as pie or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before your flight will make your trip to Riga a breeze. Here are some handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.