Flights to Liaoyuan, Jilin from NT$4,130

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your getaway in Liaoyuan. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave 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. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• 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.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Liaoyuan a piece of cake. Below you'll find some top tips for a swift journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.