Flights to Kuqa, Xinjiang from NT$38,252

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your vacation in Kuqa.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you take the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, any daily medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your prime concern when deciding what to wear on board. Consider your footwear choice carefully too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are a common side effect of flying. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are your best bet.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. There's lots you can do to mitigate your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression tights or socks, drink plenty of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Do a lap or two of the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Kuqa quick and painless. Here are some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.