Flights to Sijing, Shanghai from NT$4,961

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in Sijing. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sijing in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• 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 in the cabin.