Flights to Qionghai, Hainan from NT$6,396

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a comfortable start to your getaway in Qionghai. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and pick shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Qionghai, here you come:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.