Flights to Hamilton, from NT$9,126

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in Hamilton. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans 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:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Hamilton a breeze. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.