Flights to Akita, Akita Prefecture from NT$5,395

If you're not prepared, traveling can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Akita. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Akita, here you come:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.