Flights to Sumatra, Bristol from NT$26,428

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Sumatra. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended 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.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Sumatra, here you come:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.