Flights to Jingmen, Hubei from NT$19,365

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've compiled a list of handy tips that will get your Jingmen vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be well organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Jingmen in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.