Flights to Awara, Fukui Prefecture from NT$5,100

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey a stress-free experience. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through the airport and seeing the best of Awara in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Awara in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.