Flights to Arihara, Takashima from NT$5,058

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Arihara could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some handy hints that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and opt for slightly roomy, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Arihara, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• 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 will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.