Flights to Ashton, Canterbury from NT$2,711

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Ashton escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of 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 improve your circulation.

Being prepared before your flight will help make your trip to Ashton a pleasure. Below you'll find some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.