Flights to Altay, Xinjiang from NT$26,293

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your time in Altay. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Altay a pleasure. Read through our useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.