Flights to Şile, Istanbul from NT$14,628

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Şile could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've put together some handy tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Şile quick and painless. Here are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.