Flights to Ezhou, Hubei from NT$6,012

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a comfortable start to your time in Ezhou.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good novel. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Don layers of natural-fiber clothing and bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin. Always opt for flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your checked baggage.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-distance flying is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are another easy way to help minimize this risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Ezhou before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.