Flights to Zaozhuang, Shandong from NT$19,594

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Zaozhuang could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Zaozhuang before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• 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), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.