Flights to Vigan, Ilocos Region from NT$11,230

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Vigan could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Vigan in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.