Flights to Xiahe, Gannan Tibetan from NT$9,265

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through the airport and having a blast in Xiahe before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Xiahe before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.