Flights to Sangota, Swat from NT$57,680

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a comfortable start to your getaway in Sangota. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sangota in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.