Flights to Tarlac, from NT$4,800

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a comfortable start to your vacation in Tarlac. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a cruisy experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Tarlac a piece of cake. Below are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your passport and travel documents at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.