Flights to Kowakubi, Daisen from NT$5,303

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Kowakubi could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Kowakubi in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and ID within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.