Flights to Etajima, Hiroshima from NT$3,187

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Etajima. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Etajima, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.