Flights to Shangri-La, Deqin from NT$8,243

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Shangri-La could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some tips that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight is often as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left for other occasions. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you for it.
• The serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this occurring. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights is also a wise idea.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Shangri-La before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional 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 on board and will be confiscated.