Flights to Sintuk, Changlun from NT$1,218

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will help get your Sintuk vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are good options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Sintuk in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.