Flights to Urasoe, Okinawa Island from NT$2,436

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Urasoe escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

It's all about being organized. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Urasoe, here you come:

• Have your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite 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 clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.