Flights to Velsen-Zuid, North Holland from NT$17,324

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy tips that will help get your Velsen-Zuid vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you've got all the right gear. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Velsen-Zuid in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.