Flights to Shyok, Leh from NT$4,685

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well organized. Follow these handy tips that will get your Shyok escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Shyok in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, 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), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.