Flights to Chenzhou, Hunan from NT$38,295

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're prepared. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Chenzhou vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat footwear like sneakers.
• 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 gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

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

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, 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), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.