Flights to Shillelagh, County Wicklow from NT$4,388

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Shillelagh escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

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 avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some top tips for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out Shillelagh, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.