Flights to Zhongshan, from NT$7,309

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of handy tips that will help get your Zhongshan escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before your flight will make your trip to Zhongshan a pleasure. Here are some useful tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.