Flights to Zhangzhou, Fujian from NT$5,400

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Zhangzhou.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight can be as simple as your clothing choices. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left for other occasions. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help reduce this risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Zhangzhou in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID handy. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.