Flights to Xiaojin County, Ngawa Autonomous Prefecture from NT$8,694

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Xiaojin County. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear flat, closed-toe footwear like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Xiaojin County quick and painless. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.