Flights to Dadeng, Xiamen from NT$5,187

If you're not prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in Dadeng. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put 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) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a sweater in case you get 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. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Dadeng in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Have your ID and travel documents within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.