Flights to Siilinjarvi, Northern Savonia from NT$63,074

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Siilinjarvi. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as bleach 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:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Siilinjarvi in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.