Flights to Shuanghekou, Chongqing from NT$5,715

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Shuanghekou. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Shuanghekou in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.