Flights to Chuo, Yamanashi Prefecture from NT$6,271

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Chuo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels 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 up with comfy clothing and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Chuo in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.