Flights to Charik-kol, Cheongyang from NT$4,288

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a pleasant start to your vacation in Charik-kol. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, 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 chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for an easy trip through airport security. Watch out Charik-kol, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.