Flights to Higashi, Okinawa Island from NT$3,336

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your time in Higashi.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you carry the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your highest priority when selecting what to wear on your flight. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are a common side effect of flying. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are always a smart option.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. There are many ways to reduce your risk. Wear a pair of compression tights or socks, stay hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Walk the aisles of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

Being prepared before your flight will make your getaway to Higashi a breeze. Check out our handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport close by. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with a new cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you on board.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.