Flights to Shijiazhuang, from NT$9,552

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these essential travel tips that will help get your Shijiazhuang vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are not the best place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and bring a sweater as it can get quite cool in the cabin. Enclosed, flat shoes are always a good choice too.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. There's lots you can do to mitigate your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks or tights, stay hydrated and get your legs and feet moving. Wander up and down the aisles of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your trip to Shijiazhuang a pleasure. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.