Flights to Raiba, Kuromatsunai from NT$2,697

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of top travel tips that will help get your Raiba escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you hope to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and opt for flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be well organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Raiba in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can bring it with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.