Flights to Tuyen Quang, Tuyen Quang Province from NT$3,480

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your time in Tuyen Quang. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and choose shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Tuyen Quang in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required 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 electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.