Flights to Minamiaso, Kumamoto Prefecture from NT$5,477

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Minamiaso could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Minamiaso, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of 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.