Flights to Hegang, Heilongjiang from NT$15,214

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Hegang vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and choose shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your trip to Hegang easy and painless. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.