Flights to Takenokawa, Itsuki-mura from NT$4,609

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Takenokawa vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good book. Next, find a spot in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

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 restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of your aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and remember to bring a sweater as it can get chilly in the cabin. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are always a good idea too.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-haul flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another easy way to help reduce this risk.

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

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.