Flights to Ariake-machi, Amakusa from NT$6,529

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Ariake-machi could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy hints that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh 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 avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

The trick is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Ariake-machi in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.