Flights to Changde, Hunan from NT$12,645

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pleasant start to your time in Changde. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Changde in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.