Flights to Bantou, Guangzhou from NT$8,166

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Bantou could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've compiled some handy hints that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and 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 intend to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Bantou before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.