Flights to Jiufen, New Taipei City from NT$2,691

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Jiufen. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, travel documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Jiufen in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new hand 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 on board.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.