Flights to Swanville, Belfast from NT$45,750

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in Swanville. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, important documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your trip to Swanville a piece of cake. Here are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? 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, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.