Flights to Linxia, Gansu from NT$9,265

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your vacation in Linxia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a good book. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, any daily medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

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 or pointed objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Linxia in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.