Flights to Korla, Xinjiang from NT$21,388

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through airport security and having a blast in Korla in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good read. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo 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 objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Korla a pleasure. Below are some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Have your ID and travel documents at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.