Flights to Saphue, Trakan Phuet Phon from NT$4,451

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in Saphue. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you bring the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Saphue in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.