Flights to Dongzhu, Suzhou from NT$7,029

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. Follow these top travel tips that will help get your Dongzhu escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and choose shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your trip to Dongzhu a piece of cake. Below you'll find some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.