Flights to Macau, Bordeaux from NT$7,459

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Macau could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. Below are some tips that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Macau before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.