Flights to Dazaifu, Fukuoka from NT$6,365

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Dazaifu could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Dazaifu in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne? 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 zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.