Flights to Qingdao, from NT$4,065

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight a pleasant experience. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be zooming through airport security and having a ball in Qingdao in no time.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on board. Consider your footwear choice with care too, as swollen feet and ankles are quite common. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• The serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this developing. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression tights or socks is also recommended.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Qingdao in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.