Flights to Hsinchu, Taiwan from NT$2,690

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Hsinchu could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for an easy trip through security. Look out Hsinchu, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.