Flights to Samurai District, Senboku from NT$5,228

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Samurai District could be completely painless or it could go on forever. We've compiled some useful travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Samurai District in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.