Flights to Valdegovia, Basque Country from NT$3,259

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Valdegovia. 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 juicy novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll touchdown looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and pick flat, enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've put together some useful tips for an easy trip through security. Look out Valdegovia, here you come:

• Be sure to have your ID and travel documents close by. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.