Flights to Riga, Latvia from NT$5,177

If you're not prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in Riga.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you take the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common side effect of flying. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. But the good news is there are ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Drink plenty of water, wander through the cabin as much as you can and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Riga before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Keep your travel documents and passport close by. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.