Flights to Hikosan, Soeda from NT$2,227

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Hikosan could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. Here are some tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Hikosan before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.