Flights to Shuangyashan, Heilongjiang from NT$12,527

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a comfortable start to your vacation in Shuangyashan.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, important documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some great options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your priority when selecting what to wear on your flight. Consider your footwear choice with care too, as swollen feet and ankles are a common side effect of flying. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are always a smart option.
• A condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing foot and leg exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this developing. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights also helps reduce the risk.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Shuangyashan a breeze. Below you'll find some handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.