Flights to Rio Bravo, Mission from NT$17,384

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Rio Bravo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Rio Bravo a piece of cake. Here are some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.