Flights to Shanglou, Shaanxi from NT$6,598

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy hints that will help get your Shangzhou vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to pack a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin. Go for a pair of flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the high heels and hiking boots in your main luggage.
• It's likely you've heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There are numerous ways to minimize your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks or tights, drink lots of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Walk the aisles of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

The answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Look out Shangzhou, here you come:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• 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.