Flights to Ho Chi Minh City, from NT$3,143

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our top tips and you'll be cruising through airport security and discovering Ho Chi Minh City in next to no time.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, important documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are good options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are a common occurrence. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are your best bet.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-distance travel is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are another simple way to help lower your risk.

It's all about being prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Ho Chi Minh City, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the 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 gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.