If you’re arriving by plane, you won’t have to think too long which airport to fly into. Sado has just one – Niigata Airport (KIJ).

Make your way through the doors of KIJ and your Sado getaway will have begun! The city’s main airport, it’s located 64 kilometres from the center of town.

There are 5 airlines that fly to Sado from 8 airports around the world.

Typically, travelers choose to fly with ANA, JAL and IBEX Airlines when going to Sado. The largest number of these flights originate in Itami, with ANA operating this route the most frequently.

With roughly 159 nonstop flights every week, you’ll be hitting the runway in Sado before you can say, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Sado departing from Itami, Fukuoka and Taipei airports are in high demand.

If you’re heading to Sado from Itami, you’re looking at a flight time of 1 hour and 3 minutes. Those jetting off from Chitose can expect to be traveling for 1 hour and 20 minutes. From Fukuoka it’s about 1 hour and 33 minutes away.

If you’d like to save some cash on your Sado vacation, then listen up! As any seasoned traveler will tell you, avoid booking at the last minute. Prices are generally more expensive close to the departure date. Another terrific way to nab the most competitive fare is to research all options. If where you’re headed has a few airports, be sure to look into the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. Last but not least, be prepared to lock in your seat quickly if you find a real bargain. It might not be available for too long! With a bit of know-how and some luck, the ideal fare can be yours.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your flight to Sado could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. We’ve compiled some tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let’s start with the basics: passport, travel documents, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that’ll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a few magazines. It’s also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on board. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swollen feet are a common side effect of flying. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a sensible way to go.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. The good news is there are ways to reduce your risk of developing it. Stay hydrated, wander through the cabin wherever possible and wear compression socks or tights.

It’s easy — be prepared. We’ve rounded up some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Sado, here you come:

• Keep your ID and travel documents handy. They’re the first items you’ll be asked to present to 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 like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don’t worry, you’ll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won’t be allowed on board and will be confiscated.