Flights to Xingsha, Changsha from NT$6,342

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Xingsha could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've put together some handy tips that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, travel documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are some great options. If you intend to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Xingsha in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.