Flights to Yen Bai, Lao Cai Province from NT$4,178

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Yen Bai escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your important medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of your aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a sweater as it can get chilly inside the cabin during longer flights. Closed-toed, flat shoes are also a good idea.
• The serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this from happening. Wearing a pair of compression socks or tights is also a wise idea.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to Yen Bai a pleasure. Below are some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.