Flights to Ningbo, Zhejiang from NT$6,870

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a stress-free start to your time in Ningbo.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Layer up in natural fibers and remember to pack a sweater in case you get cold. Always opt for roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and heavy hiking boots in your checked luggage.
• The condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation. Doing foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this occurring. Wearing a quality pair of compression socks or tights is also a wise idea.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Ningbo a breeze. Below are some handy tips for a swift journey through security:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your 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 soon enough.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and 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. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.