Flights to Sendo, Miyako from NT$3,005

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a comfortable start to your getaway in Sendo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable 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:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Sendo in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your travel documents and passport within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.