Flights to Hwangmaesil, Yesan from NT$4,110

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Hwangmaesil vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a good book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Hwangmaesil in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.