Flights to Qingdao, Shandong from NT$8,058

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Qingdao could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some useful tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Qingdao a breeze. Here are some handy hints for a stress-free journey through security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.