Flights to Manzhou, Pingtung County from NT$2,800

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Manzhou.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice in clothes. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are many ways to lessen your risk. Wear a pair of compression socks or tights, drink plenty of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Do a lap or two of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Manzhou in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Have your travel documents and ID close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.