Flights to Tawau, Sabah from NT$9,313

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your time in Tawau. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll touchdown looking fresh and ready 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, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Tawau a pleasure. Below you'll find some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.