Flights to Akita, Akita Prefecture from NT$4,889

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. Check out these handy tips and tricks that will get your Akita vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right things. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, make room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight often lies in your choice of clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
• The condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a quality pair of compression tights or socks is also a wise idea.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Akita a pleasure. Read through our handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new hand 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 bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.