Flights to Iji, Kunigami from NT$2,421

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Iji could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good read. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

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

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. 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 inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.