Flights to Nishinoomote, Kagoshima Prefecture from NT$9,318

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Nishinoomote escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, make room in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Nishinoomote in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.