Flights to Zhapu, Jiaxing from NT$6,224

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your getaway in Zhapu. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Zhapu before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.