Flights to Zhaoqing, Guangdong from NT$9,711

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. Check out these handy hints that will get your Zhaoqing vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns 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 donning layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Zhaoqing in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.