Flights to Trinidad, Texas from NT$20,013

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Trinidad. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find 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:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Trinidad in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.