Flights to Dali, Yunnan from NT$8,261

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organized. Check out these top travel tips that will help get your Dali escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you take the right stuff. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and a good book. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common side effect of flying. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a smart option.
• A condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking up and down the aisle and doing foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this happening. Wearing a good pair of compression socks or tights may also help.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Dali, here you come:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.