Flights to Mengla, Xishuangbanna Dai from NT$13,555

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

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some great options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

It's easy — be prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Look out Mengla, here you come:

• Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock 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 X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.