Flights to Hirado, Nagasaki Prefecture from NT$2,336

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Hirado could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some handy tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and maybe a neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Look out Hirado, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.