Flights to Canton, Casale sul Sile from NT$26,487

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Canton. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Canton in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring 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 good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.