Flights to Uruma, Okinawa Island from NT$2,393

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a trouble-free start to your time in Uruma. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

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

• Keep your boarding pass and ID someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.