Flights to Kota Kinabalu, from NT$919

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these handy tips that will help get your Kota Kinabalu escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your highest priority when selecting what to wear during your flight. Consider your choice of footwear carefully too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common side effect of flying. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are your best bet.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. But the great news is there are proven ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Stay hydrated, get up and walk around the cabin as much as you can and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Kota Kinabalu in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.