Flights to Sara, Western Visayas from NT$1,370

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your vacation in Sara. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items so you'll arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your getaway to Sara a breeze. We've rounded up some handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.