Flights to Taketomi, Okinawa Prefecture from NT$3,411

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. We've put together a list of handy hints that will get your Taketomi escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your main priority when picking what to wear on board. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common occurrence. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a sensible way to go.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. But the good news is there are numerous ways to lower your risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, wander around the cabin as often as you can and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Taketomi before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.