Flights to Chuxiong Yi, Yunnan from NT$12,177

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your time in Chuxiong Yi.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

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 the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your checked suitcase. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you later.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long-haul is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression tights and socks are another great idea to help minimize this risk.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Chuxiong Yi, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots 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 or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.