Flights to Saint Mary, Lebanon from NT$6,958

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

• First things first, pack your passport, travel docs, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Saint Mary in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. 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 the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. 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 in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.