Flights to Atsu, Okayama from NT$5,154

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Atsu. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare pair of socks and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Atsu in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.