Flights to Budai, Chiayi County from NT$7,986

Penghu Airport (MZG) is the sole airport in Budai.

Disembark the plane at MZG and you’ll be sitting 56 kilometers from downtown. Tainan Airport (TNN) is another big airport in Budai. It’s 48 kilometers from the city center.

You’ll discover 3 airlines that operate on the route to Budai. These jet in from at least 8 airports across the globe.

Mandarin Airlines and UNI Air fly frequently into Budai. Hopping on a Mandarin Airlines flight from Kaohsiung is one of the most preferred ways to get there.

With 294 direct flights operating every week, you’ll be hitting the runway in Budai before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

Travelers frequently depart from Taipei, Kaohsiung and Taichung airports when flying to Budai.

If it’s Kaohsiung you’re departing, you’ll be midair for around 40 minutes before you touchdown in Budai. Runway to runway from Taipei takes about 54 minutes and from Taichung, it’s 44 minutes.

Don’t leave booking your flight to Budai until the last moment. That’s one trick well-versed jet-setters use to get the best prices. Booking well in advance means more options and more affordable flights. Don’t stop there, however. Do some research and find out if there are a few airports at your destination. Prices often differ depending on the airport you jet into. Be sure to compare fares across airlines too. And finally, don’t forget that the early bird catches the worm. Familiarize yourself with airfare costs and have your credit card ready to secure your ticket as soon as you see a great bargain. The best deals don’t last long.

Wherever you’re coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you’ve prepared well. Check out these handy tips that will help get your Budai vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let’s start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take 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 neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don’t forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won’t be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Layer yourself up in natural-fiber clothing and don’t forget to pack a cardigan in case it gets cool. Opt for flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and heavy hiking boots in your checked luggage.
• Unfortunately, one risk of flying long distances is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To avoid this, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are also a great idea to help reduce this risk.

The secret is to be organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you’ll be hopping onto that plane to Budai in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you’re allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you’ll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don’t forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won’t be allowed on board.