Flights to Tara, Saga Prefecture from NT$5,295

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Tara could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. We've put together some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you take the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets 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. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Tara in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.