Flights to Miyun, Beijing from NT$8,731

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these essential travel tips that will get your Miyun vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Miyun in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, 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). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.