Flights to Dunhuang, Jiuquan from NT$14,796

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Dunhuang could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy travel tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Dunhuang, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal 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 need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.