Flights to Silang, Calabarzon from NT$2,763

If you're not prepared, traveling can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a trouble-free start to your time in Silang. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Silang in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Have your passport and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you on board.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.