Flights to Meihekou, Tonghua from NT$8,449

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Meihekou escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you bring the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be the goal when picking what to wear on board. Consider your footwear choice carefully too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common occurrence. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a smart option.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long distances is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To avoid this, make the most of every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are another simple way to help reduce this risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Meihekou in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.