Flights to Shuozhou, Shanxi from NT$11,139

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Shuozhou could be completely painless or it could go on forever. Here are some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Next, leave space in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and bring a sweater as it can get chilly inside the cabin on long-haul flights. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are also a wise idea.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There's lots you can do to minimize your risk. Don a pair of compression socks, drink plenty of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Wander up and down the aisles of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Shuozhou in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.