Flights to Yabuli, Harbin from NT$5,412

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your time in Yabuli. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Yabuli, here you come:

• Have your boarding pass and passport close by. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.