Flights to Xiushui, Changhua County from NT$3,336

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a comfortable start to your vacation in Xiushui. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, important documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some great options. If you hope to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your trip to Xiushui quick and painless. Read through our top tips for a swift journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.