Flights to Amanohashidate, Miyazu from NT$5,975

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

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Amanohashidate in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your 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 soon enough.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.