Flights to Bizen, Okayama Prefecture from NT$5,418

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Bizen. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you carry the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Bizen in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.