Flights to Taesu-gol, Cheongyang from NT$4,054

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're prepared. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Taesu-gol vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh 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 liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Don layers of natural-fiber clothing and pack a pullover just in case you get chilly. Always opt for well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your checked baggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long distances is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are another great idea to help reduce this risk.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your getaway to Taesu-gol a piece of cake. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product 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-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.