Flights to Trinidad, Itapúa Department from NT$27,228

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in Trinidad. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you take the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo 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. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

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

• Keep your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container 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 take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.