Flights to Sango, Nara Prefecture from NT$7,013

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will get your Sango vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

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, roomy and easy to remove.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being organized before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Sango a pleasure. We've compiled some handy tips for a swift journey past security:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.