Flights to Mentougou, Beijing from NT$4,036

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these handy travel tips that will help get your Mentougou vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out Mentougou, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, 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 minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take 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-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.