Flights to Sils, Catalonia from NT$13,918

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your getaway in Sils.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your prime concern when picking what to wear on board. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common side effect of flying. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• The condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing foot and leg exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this from happening. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights also helps reduce your risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Sils in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.