Flights to Beihai, Guangxi from NT$11,444

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Beihai. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack in your passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

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

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.