Flights to Kunming, Yunnan from NT$5,512

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Kunming could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. We've put together some handy travel tips that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Kunming in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Have your ID and travel documents within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? 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-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.