Flights to Yanqing, Beijing from NT$5,071

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your time in Yanqing. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, put in your passport, official ID, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll touchdown feeling 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 your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Yanqing in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.